Largest container vessel ever: KPT announces historic arrival of ‘MSC ANNA’

KARACHI: The Karachi Port Trust (KPT) announced the historic arrival of MSC ANNA, the largest container vessel ever to dock in Pakistan, at the South Asia Pakistan Terminal Limited (SAPTL). This momentous occasion underscores KPT's status as a premier Maritime Hub in the region.

The arrival of MSC ANNA at SAPTL is a significant achievement that reinforces KPT's reputation as a leading port. With its impressive dimensions of 400 meters in length and a capacity of 19,368 TEUs, this vessel exemplifies the progress and strategic importance of Karachi Port Trust.

Sindh Governor Kamran Khan Tessori, while talking to media appreciated the successfully handling of massive container vessel at Karachi Port Trust terminal SAPTL.

He congratulated Chairman KPT and Hutchison Ports for achieving this historic milestone, noting that the successful handling of the world's largest Panama ship will positively impact the country's economy. He added that Hutchison Ports has boosted the image of Karachi Port in the international maritime sector.

Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, highlighted the fruitful partnership between KPT and Hutchison Ports Pakistan, which has opened up revolutionary opportunities in the blue economy. This collaboration is set to elevate KPT to new heights of efficiency and excellence, attracting further international investments.

He emphasized the collective responsibility towards enhancing Pakistan’s prosperity and economic independence, stressing the importance of reducing reliance on international financial institutions.

KPT Chairman Syedain Raza Zaidi emphasized that Karachi Port, strategically located at the crossroads of South Asia, the Middle East, and Central Asia, serves as a vital gateway for trade in these regions. The development of a deep-water port facility at South Wharf, supported by an investment of Rs. 66 billion, and a concession agreement with Hutchison Port Holdings (HPH) involving a foreign investment of USD 400 million, positions KPT to significantly enhance trade with Central Asian countries.

CS Kim, CEO of South Asia Pakistan Terminals Limited (SAPTL), in his address of welcome extended his heartfelt appreciation to the Minister for Maritime Affairs and the Chairman of Karachi Port Trust (KPT) for their unwavering cooperation and invaluable guidance in reaching this significant milestone.

The momentous event was attended by MNA Qadir Patel former Federal Minister for Health, MPA Asif Khan, Commander Pakistan Fleet Vice Admiral Muhammad Faisal Abbasi, Chairman PQA Rear Admiral Syed Hasan Nasir Shah (R), DG MSA Rear Admiral Imtiaz Ali, Managing Director Karachi Ship Yard Rear Admiral Salman Ilyas, CEO SAPTL CS Kim, Council General Turkey Cemal Sango and former Provincial Minister Brig Haris Nawaz (retd), Muhammad Sadiq and Junaid Chief Collectors Pak Customs.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2024